Ryder Cup

Long before the sun began to color and illuminate the darkened black sky the shrill alarm sounded. The clock glowed just before 5 AM and yet Rich arose with a skip in his step and a glimmer of excitement in his sleepy eyes. This was no ordinary morning for Rich and his father. Today was going to be full of history in the making. In fact, this day had been talked about and dreamed of with anticipation more years than I can recall. There are not many things other than childbirth, holidays and baptisms that will bring your parents 1,400 miles for a quick three day 72 hour stay, get up before the crack of dawn, and beam and smile all the way through. Nope. Not much. But this September 19th was different. It would be filled with an event rarely happens. In fact it only takes place every four years in the United States. Even then, the host city is usually too many miles away to even fathom going. Then you have to get tickets, and that can be the trickiest part. And yet, somehow it all fell into place. Your residency kept you in the Bluegrass. Your name was picked in a random lottery drawing. You got to purchase tickets for Friday and Saturday. Your much coveted and hard earned bonus day would finally be put to good use. And your favorite golfing buddy, who just happens to be your dad, is as thrilled as you are to go. Yup, it's a good day indeed.Today is the first day of the 2008 Ryder Cup at Valhalla Golf Club in Louisville. This will be Kentucky's golden gem in their golf history. A time when the world will turn and watch the USA battle Europe in an epic battle. Get up close and personal to 24 of the world's best professional golfers in action. And Rich and his dad, clad in red, white and blue will be there in person, soaking it all in. Sure, they don't allow cameras or cell phones, but the memories in their minds will be enough. If not, I'm sure there will be some pretty fantastic souvenirs that would help keep things fresh in their minds long after. Or there is the the ESPN footage I recorded on the DVR (who wouldn't want to scan the crowd for your loved ones?). The list could go on.

So hooray for today. Enjoy it Rich and Dad. After all the wait and hard work you've earned it.